If there’s one dish that transports you straight to Grandma’s kitchen, filled with warmth, love, and the aroma of nostalgia, it’s her Thanksgiving stuffing. Picture this: each bite reveals layers of savory goodness, conjuring up memories of family laughter and cozy gatherings, all while whispering sweet nothings of culinary adventures around the globe. Get ready, my brave food explorers, because we’re about to embark on a flavor journey that celebrates tradition with a twist!
Why make this recipe? A common theme around the world is that food brings us together, and Thanksgiving stuffing is no exception. It’s packed with hearty bread, colorful veggies, and aromatic herbs, each ingredient telling a story of comfort and joy. Dive into this splendid fusion of flavors and indulge in the sheer satisfaction of homemade stuffing that’ll upgrade your holiday feast to epic status!
How to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients:
- 16 cups dry bread cubes (about 3 large loaves of bread)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups onion (1/2" diced)
- 2 cups celery (1/2" diced)
- 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh chopped or dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon sage (fresh chopped or dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions:
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Dry Bread Cubes: Start your adventure by letting your bread cubes bask in the sun—or simply leave them out on the counter overnight. This step is crucial for that delightful crispiness! (Don’t worry, they won’t turn into a dry desert; they’ll be transformed into glorious golden croutons of flavor!)
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Make the Stuffing: Grab that butter and melt it in a gigantic skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onions and celery, and sauté until they’re as tender as a love song. Sprinkle in those aromatic herbs: the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until your kitchen smells like a warm hug from Grandma!
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Now, in a bowl, combine those glorious bread cubes with your sizzling onion and celery medley. Pour the chicken broth over the top like a refreshing waterfall and mix it all up. Add the eggs, stirring gently to bind everything together.
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Bake your creation: Spread this colorful mixture into a greased baking dish, cover it up, and let it take a dreamy 30-40 minute nap in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until it’s golden brown and inviting. Cue the grand reveal!
How to serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
Presentation is key, my fellow chefs! Serve this stuffing alongside that juicy roasted turkey or glorious rotisserie chicken. Alternatively, give it the star treatment by garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to bring in that pop of color. Plates will fill up quickly, so be ready to dish out seconds!
How to store Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
Leftovers? Never fear! Store your stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll be good for about 3-4 days. If you want to treasure that cozy taste longer, freeze it in portions – just thaw and reheat when you need a taste of nostalgia to brighten your day.
Tips to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
- Sourdough, wholegrain, or gluten-free? Go wild! Experiment with different types of bread to add unbelievable textural twists and flavor notes.
- Herbs galore: Feel free to throw in some rosemary, oregano, or whatever suits your adventurous palate to spice it up.
- Out of chicken broth? Use vegetable broth for a delightful vegetarian alternative that’s equally tempting.
Variations
Mix it up! Throw in some cooked sausage, apples, or nuts for crunch. A dash of cranberries adds a tart surprise, while mushrooms can elevate the earthiness of your stuffing. Just like the world, your choices are limitless!
FAQs
Q: Can you make this stuffing ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven to heat up before serving – it’s like a surprise party for your taste buds!
Q: Is it okay if I don’t have poultry seasoning?
A: No problem! You can whip up your own blend with equal parts sage, thyme, and marjoram because food adventures are about being resourceful, right?
Q: Can I adapt this recipe for a smaller gathering?
A: You bet! Just halve the ingredients, and you’ll be good to go. After all, there’s nothing wrong with having stuffing dreams, even for two!
So grab your apron, channel your inner culinary globe-trotter, and dive into the warmth and magic of this Grandma-approved Thanksgiving stuffing. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family! Happy feasting!
Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients
Method
- Let your bread cubes bask in the sun or leave them out on the counter overnight for crispiness.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and celery, sauté until tender.
- Sprinkle in poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine sautéed vegetables with bread cubes.
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture and mix well. Gently stir in the eggs.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, cover, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.